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2021 Honda Civic Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 6, 2026·Ethan Miller
2021 Honda Civic Report

Overall Score

8.3/ 10
Our Verdict
Recommended

Key Takeaways

  • Exceptional reliability with zero recalls and zero complaints reported for the 2021 model year.
  • Achieves a perfect 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, including frontal, side, and rollover crash tests.
  • Delivers a combined EPA-estimated 25 MPG, contributing to reasonable fuel costs despite requiring premium fuel.
  • Front-wheel drive and a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine offer a balanced driving experience for everyday use.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2021 Honda Civic

The 2021 Honda Civic continues its legacy as a benchmark in the compact car segment. It offers a compelling blend of practicality, efficiency, and engaging driving dynamics. For the used car shopper, this model year presents a particularly attractive proposition due to its exceptional reported reliability and top-tier safety scores. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine provides adequate power for daily driving, complemented by a fuel-efficient Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive. While it requires premium fuel, its combined 25 MPG rating keeps running costs in check. This Civic is a sensible choice for those prioritizing dependability and low ownership risk.

Critical Failure Risk

Exceptional reliability with zero recalls and zero complaints reported for the 2021 model year.

Early detection can reduce the odds of major repair bills.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower
158–174HP
Torque
138–162 lb–ftLB-FT
Fuel Efficiency
Combined
25
MPG
City
22
MPG
Highway
28
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.7/ 10

Practicality

5.4/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Commuters seeking an efficient and reliable daily driver.

+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Enthusiasts seeking high-performance driving dynamics or aggressive styling.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Honda Civic Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Honda Civic.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
5
Horsepower
158-174 hp
Torque
138-162 lb-ft
Transmission
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
MSRP Range
$21,700 - $28,300
EPA Combined MPG
25

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Most Common Issues

No complaint hotspot data available yet.

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (0W-20 Synthetic) (Parts: 0W-20 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Wiper Blades

Est. shop cost: $80 - $150

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
Final buyer verdict: should you buy?
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2021 Honda Civic reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Honda Civic is 9.7/10. Reliability score is 9.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2021 Honda Civic for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.4/10. EPA combined economy is 25 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 428 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2021 Honda Civic?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Honda Civic is 8.3/10. Overall score is 8.3/10 (Strong). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 9.3/10. Practicality 5.4/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Honda Civic?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (0W-20 Synthetic) (Parts: 0W-20 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Wiper Blades at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $200 - $350.

What is the MSRP range for the 2021 Honda Civic?▾

MSRP range is $21,700 - $28,300.

What engine is in the 2021 Honda Civic?▾

Engine specs list Inline-4 • 4 • 2.0. Output is 158-174 hp • 138-162 lb-ft.

What transmission does the 2021 Honda Civic use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Honda Civic, transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2021 Civic require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Honda Civic?▾

EPA combined estimate is 25 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Honda Civic?▾

12 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

What is the fuel economy range for the 2021 Honda Civic?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Honda Civic, fuel economy range is 25-33 mpg combined.

How many people fit in a 2021 Honda Civic?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Honda Civic, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2021 Honda Civic?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Honda Civic, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2021 Honda Civic use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Honda Civic, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Honda Civic?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 5/5.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2021 Honda Civic?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2021 Toyota Corolla and 2021 Mazda Mazda3.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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